Tennis bracelets are one of the most iconic diamond jewellery pieces — effortlessly refined, endlessly versatile and universally loved. Whether worn alone or layered with other bracelets, their fluid line of diamonds offers a soft brilliance that pairs beautifully with any style, from everyday minimalism to formal elegance.
At James Thredgold, our tennis bracelets are designed with longevity in mind. From the precision of each diamond setting to the flexibility of the bracelet’s structure, the piece must not only look beautiful — it must feel secure, comfortable and wearable for life.
This guide explores what makes tennis bracelets so enduring, and what to consider when selecting one.
What Defines a Tennis Bracelet?
A tennis bracelet is characterised by a continuous line of diamonds or gemstones, each carefully matched and individually set to create a seamless, flowing band of brilliance. Its elegance comes from simplicity: the diamonds do the talking.
Its enduring popularity stems from its versatility. A tennis bracelet transitions effortlessly from day to night, stacking harmoniously with bangles and watches while remaining striking when worn alone.
Why They’re Called “Tennis Bracelets”
While the style existed long before, the term “tennis bracelet” became famous in the 1980s when professional player Chris Evert lost her diamond bracelet during a match. Play paused until it was found, and the name has remained ever since.
Today, the tennis bracelet is recognised globally as a symbol of understated luxury — loved for its clean silhouette and refined sparkle.
What to Look for in a Diamond Tennis Bracelet
As with engagement rings, the craftsmanship behind a tennis bracelet is essential to its beauty and longevity. The key considerations include:
Diamond Quality
Because a tennis bracelet uses multiple diamonds, consistency is critical.
We carefully match each diamond for colour, clarity, cut and proportional size to achieve a harmonious, refined look. Even small differences can affect the bracelet’s visual flow.
Setting Style
The most common settings include:
• Claw/Prong Setting – maximises light and brilliance
• Bezel Setting – a modern, protective choice
• Semi-Bezel or Bar Setting – offering security without compromising sparkle
Your lifestyle and design preference will help determine the best setting for you.
Flexibility and Structure
A high-quality tennis bracelet must feel fluid yet strong.
Every link requires meticulous engineering so the bracelet sits comfortably on the wrist, without twisting, catching or becoming overly rigid.
Clasp Quality
Often overlooked, the clasp is crucial to security.
Our tennis bracelets feature durable clasps with secondary safety catches — essential for such a precious piece.
Metal Choices: Gold and Platinum
Your choice of metal influences the bracelet’s colour, durability and overall look.
• 18ct White Gold – a sleek, bright finish that complements the diamonds
• 18ct Yellow Gold – a warm, timeless choice that adds contrast to the stones
• 18ct Rose Gold – soft, romantic and modern
• Platinum – strong, naturally white and extremely durable
The right metal enhances the diamonds while remaining comfortable for daily wear.
Wearability: From Everyday Luxury to Special Occasion
One of the reasons tennis bracelets remain so beloved is their ease of wear.
They offer:
• everyday sparkle without being overstated
• elegance that suits all ages and personal styles
• effortless pairing with watches, bangles or other bracelets
• the ability to dress up or down seamlessly
Many clients choose a tennis bracelet to mark milestones — an anniversary, a birthday, or the birth of a child — adding emotional significance to an already meaningful piece.
A Beautiful Gift — and an Heirloom
A tennis bracelet is a gift that lasts a lifetime. Its classic design ensures it never feels dated, and its durability allows it to be passed down through generations.
Whether chosen for yourself or given to someone special, a tennis bracelet becomes a cherished heirloom — a piece that carries stories and sentiment.
Discover the Tennis Bracelet Collection
At James Thredgold, each tennis bracelet is crafted with precision and care, ensuring exceptional sparkle, comfort and longevity. Explore our ready-made designs or speak with us about creating a bespoke bracelet tailored to your style.
